Shock waves may ease stroke stiffness

This study tests if a treatment called extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) can reduce leg muscle stiffness and improve walking in people who have had a stroke. About 85 adults who had a stroke at least 3 months ago will get either real ESWT or a fake (sham) version, plus standard physical therapy, three times a week for four weeks. Researchers will check muscle tightness, walking speed, and quality of life to see if the real treatment helps more.